#195- IRRR & IMA: Ida Rukavina & Kristen Vake
Mining Minds
What does pride, legacy, and the future of mining look like on Minnesota’s Iron Range? In this episode, we sit down with , Commissioner of the , and , Executive Director of the , to dig deep into the history, culture, and future of mining in northern Minnesota. From immigrant roots and unions that shaped entire communities, to today’s challenges of permitting, workforce development, and the global demand for critical minerals—Ida and Kristen share candid insights about what it means to grow up in a mining family, how mining tax dollars are reinvested back into schools and communities,...
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#194- US Steel: Michael Bakk & Chrissy Bartovich
Mining Minds
In this special episode of the , we sit down at with , Director of Facilities Excellence, and , Senior Director of Environmental. From humble beginnings to leading major projects that shape the future of steelmaking, Mike and Crissy share their personal journeys, leadership lessons, and the innovations driving today’s mining industry. We dive into the transformation of mining from “pick and shovel” to high-tech operations featuring AI, robotic dogs, and advanced reliability systems. Mike and Crissy sheds light on the critical role of environmental stewardship,...
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#193- Iron Range: Matt & Julie Lucas
Mining Minds
In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with and J at their home on Minnesota’s historic Iron Range. From growing up in Hibbing and Chisholm to careers in environmental consulting, mining operations, and advocacy, Matt and Julie share their personal journeys that reflect the resilience and determination of the mining industry. Matt talks about working nearly two decades alongside his father before joining the mines, where he’s now part of the steelworkers’ union, keeping critical supply chains moving. Julie opens up about her path from environmental science into mining leadership,...
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#192- Iron Range: Darleen Gargano & Talia Sandys
Mining Minds
Overlooking iconic Hibbing Taconite Mining Operation in Minnesota, Mining Minds had the opportunity to speak with two remarkable women whose stories capture the history and heart of mining in the state. First, we’re joined by , Communications and Engagement Director for , who has been our guide through the region’s rich mining heritage. Then, we dive deep into the incredible 30+ year career of , a retired miner who began her journey in 1976 when opportunities for women in the pit were almost unheard of. From her first day pulling cable and driving haul trucks to operating graders in...
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#191- Iron Range: Dean DeBeltz
Mining Minds
Get ready for one of our most unforgettable episodes yet—recorded on a pontoon boat floating on Fall Lake, at the edge of the iconic in Minnesota! This isn’t just another podcast; it’s a full-circle conversation with , a third-generation Iron Ranger, passionate outdoorsman, and Vice President of External Relations & Project Operations at . From running towboats at 12 years old to shaping the mining culture of a next-generation copper-nickel project, Dean’s story is a tribute to the grit, heart, and pride that defines the Minnesota mining country. He dives deep into the sacrifices,...
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#190- Iron Range: Rory Oberhelman & Johnny Eloranta
Mining Minds
In this special on-location episode, travels to the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range to sit down with , Senior Project Coordinator, and , Community Relations Advisor at . Broadcasting from the iconic nickel room, the conversation dives into the history, pride, and promise of mining in northern Minnesota. Rory shares his unconventional journey from cabin building in Alaska to environmental permitting and project leadership, highlighting how personal purpose and community impact led him deeper into mining. Johnny brings a generational perspective—combining his family's blasting legacy, a...
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#189- Workforce Development Panel Discussion
Mining Minds
The mining industry stands at a crossroads. With a rapidly aging workforce, persistent misconceptions, and the growing demand for innovation, the need to reshape how we attract, develop, and retain talent has never been more urgent. In this powerful panel edition of the , we bring together six influential leaders from across the industry to engage in an honest, forward-thinking discussion on the future of workforce development in mining. Featuring: () – Metallurgical engineer student and student outreach advocate () – HR leader driving grassroots education and skilled trade pipelines...
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#188- Elko Replenish Med Spa
Mining Minds
In this episode of the podcast sits down with two remarkable women reshaping the health and wellness landscape: Melissa Montalvo and of . Together, they reveal how their professional experiences—from ER trauma to urgent care frustrations—sparked a vision: to create a space that not only heals but empowers. That vision became , a modern facility focused on hormone therapy, IV nutrition, weight management, and overall wellness. The duo discusses how their clinic is bridging the gap between conventional medicine and preventative care, especially for miners and working professionals in...
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#187- Trampus Cook
Mining Minds
In this episode of the , we sit down with , Regional Director for , whose journey through the mining world is as rich and layered as the ore bodies he’s helped uncover. A fourth-generation miner and cowboy at heart, Trampus takes us through his early days jacklegging in narrow veins of California gold mines, running heavy equipment under Lake Erie, and eventually stepping into leadership with RAM. From growing up between the ropes of cowboy life and the rails of underground shafts, to being a single father raising four young kids while chasing production, Trampus shares raw and emotional...
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#186- WIM: Jessica Scanlan
Mining Minds
In our final episode from the 2025 Conference, we’re joined by the passionate, bold, and trailblazing —geological engineer, social media influencer, and founder of . Jessica shares her unique path from a small-town girl in handmade dresses to becoming a respected voice in the mining industry. We dive into her early aspirations, challenges in mining, the power of mentorship, and how she turned burnout into a bold new business rooted in storytelling and education. From internships at to building a media company that highlights the beauty and grit of mining life, Jessica’s authenticity...
info_outlineIn this episode, Mining Minds sits down with Jason Bubba, Chief Operating Officer of NORCAT, a leader in mining innovation and training. Born and raised in a mining town, Jason’s journey is deeply influenced by his early passion for martial arts, which has shaped both his personal and professional life. From entrepreneurial ventures to working his way up at NORCAT, Jason has been instrumental in driving change in the mining industry. He’s dedicated to developing the next generation of miners through innovative training programs, and NORCAT’s collaboration with Great Basin College is helping to expand their reach into Nevada. With a “Start Small and Grow Fast” mentality, Jason and NORCAT continue to build on their success. Tune in as we explore his career, the impact of NORCAT, and the exciting partnership with Great Basin College. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation, check out GBC-NORCAT MST at nevadamst.com. Please help us welcome Jason Bubba to The Face!
Sponsors:
Heavy Metal Equipment and Rentals
Chapters:
00:00 Born, Raised, and Living in a Mining Town
06:30 Martial Arts
15:29 Early Entrepreneur
27:03 Becoming NORCAT
55:35 Nevada Expansion
1:08:36 Education as part of the Social License to Operate
1:22:54 Future Vision
1:35:27 Areas of Opportunity